The Lee Resolution declared the United Colonies independent on July 2, 1776, before America250’s July 4 date.
Introduced by Virginia delegate Richard Henry Lee, the resolution stated that the colonies should be free and independent states, released from allegiance to the British Crown. The Second Continental Congress approved it on July 2, two days before adopting the Declaration of Independence.
The Declaration served as the public explanation and justification for the independence decision. It presented political principles, described grievances against George III, and announced the colonies’ new status. This distinction explains why historians separate the independence vote from the document that proclaimed and explained it.
The July 2 date is an important neighboring fact in America250 history. John Adams believed it would become the celebrated anniversary, but July 4 ultimately became the national holiday because it marked adoption of the Declaration.